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Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl
It’s 1938, and a young woman selling face cream out of a New York City beauty parlor is determined to prove she can have it all. Her name is Estée Lauder, and she’s about to take the world by storm, in this dazzling new novel from the USA Today bestselling author of The Social Graces and Park Avenue Summer.
In New York City, you can disappear into the crowd. At least that’s what Gloria Downing desperately hopes as she tries to reinvent herself after a devastating family scandal. She’s ready for a total life makeover and a friend she can lean on—and into her path walks a young, idealistic woman named Estée. Their chance encounter will change Gloria’s life forever.
Estée dreams of success and becoming a household name like Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, and Revlon. Before Gloria knows it, she is swept up in her new friend’s mission and while Estée rolls up her sleeves, Gloria begins to discover her own talents. After landing a job at Saks Fifth Avenue, New York’s finest luxury department store, Gloria finds her voice, which proves instrumental in opening doors for Estée’s insatiable ambitions.
But in a world unaccustomed to women with power, they’ll each have to pay the price that comes with daring to live life on their own terms and refusing to back down.
In New York City, you can disappear into the crowd. At least that’s what Gloria Downing desperately hopes as she tries to reinvent herself after a devastating family scandal. She’s ready for a total life makeover and a friend she can lean on—and into her path walks a young, idealistic woman named Estée. Their chance encounter will change Gloria’s life forever.
Estée dreams of success and becoming a household name like Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, and Revlon. Before Gloria knows it, she is swept up in her new friend’s mission and while Estée rolls up her sleeves, Gloria begins to discover her own talents. After landing a job at Saks Fifth Avenue, New York’s finest luxury department store, Gloria finds her voice, which proves instrumental in opening doors for Estée’s insatiable ambitions.
But in a world unaccustomed to women with power, they’ll each have to pay the price that comes with daring to live life on their own terms and refusing to back down.
432 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2023
840 people are currently reading
25918 people want to read
About the author
Renée Rosen
12 books2,114 followersRenee is the USA Today bestselling author of 8 historical fiction including: FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL and THE SOCIAL GRACES,
Her new novel, LET'S CALL HER BARBIE, about the Barbie doll creators Ruth Handler and Jack Ryan will be published January 21,2025 by Penguin Random House / Berkley.
Most people discover their love of reading first and then decide to try writing. For Renee Rosen, it was just the opposite. From the time she was a little girl she knew she wanted to be a writer and by age seventeen had completed her first novel, with what she admits was the worst opening line of all time. Her hopes of being the youngest published author on record were soon dashed when her “masterpiece” was repeatedly rejected. Several years and many attempts later, Renee finally became a reader first.
Since then she has been fortunate enough to study the craft of writing from such esteemed novelists as Michael Cunningham, Susan Minot and Carol Anshaw.
Renee now lives in Chicago where she is working on a new novel. You can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/ReneeRosenAu..., https://twitter.com/ReneeRosen1 or visit her website at www.reneerosen.com
Praise for DOLLFACE
"DOLLFACE is as intoxicating as the forbidden liquor at the heart of it. Rosen's Chicago gangsters are vividly rendered, and the gun molls stir up at least as much trouble as their infamous men. Fans of Boardwalk Empire will love DOLLFACE. I know I did." Sara Gruen, New York Times bestselling author of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS
Advanced Praise for WHAT THE LADY WANTS (coming November 4, 2014)
"WHAT THE LADY WANTS is as fun and addictive and Chicago-licious as a box of Marshall Field's Frango Mints. And, sadly, you'll finish it almost as fast. A delight.” Rebecca Makkai, author of The Borrower and The Hundred Year House
Awards for EVERY CROOKED POT
2010 Popular Book for Young Adults by YALSA
2007 Booklist Editor’s Pick
Starred Reviews from Booklist and School Library Journal
Her new novel, LET'S CALL HER BARBIE, about the Barbie doll creators Ruth Handler and Jack Ryan will be published January 21,2025 by Penguin Random House / Berkley.
Most people discover their love of reading first and then decide to try writing. For Renee Rosen, it was just the opposite. From the time she was a little girl she knew she wanted to be a writer and by age seventeen had completed her first novel, with what she admits was the worst opening line of all time. Her hopes of being the youngest published author on record were soon dashed when her “masterpiece” was repeatedly rejected. Several years and many attempts later, Renee finally became a reader first.
Since then she has been fortunate enough to study the craft of writing from such esteemed novelists as Michael Cunningham, Susan Minot and Carol Anshaw.
Renee now lives in Chicago where she is working on a new novel. You can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/ReneeRosenAu..., https://twitter.com/ReneeRosen1 or visit her website at www.reneerosen.com
Praise for DOLLFACE
"DOLLFACE is as intoxicating as the forbidden liquor at the heart of it. Rosen's Chicago gangsters are vividly rendered, and the gun molls stir up at least as much trouble as their infamous men. Fans of Boardwalk Empire will love DOLLFACE. I know I did." Sara Gruen, New York Times bestselling author of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS
Advanced Praise for WHAT THE LADY WANTS (coming November 4, 2014)
"WHAT THE LADY WANTS is as fun and addictive and Chicago-licious as a box of Marshall Field's Frango Mints. And, sadly, you'll finish it almost as fast. A delight.” Rebecca Makkai, author of The Borrower and The Hundred Year House
Awards for EVERY CROOKED POT
2010 Popular Book for Young Adults by YALSA
2007 Booklist Editor’s Pick
Starred Reviews from Booklist and School Library Journal
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,058 reviews
April 30, 2023
A Renee Rosen heroine is always one who falls in love not with a significant other (though she may do that too) but with her work. FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL is no exception as an ex-debutante dazed by the destruction of her family and their fortune enters the work force for the first time, barely hanging onto a shampoo-girl job in the beauty business, and meets the dazzling Estee Lauder: a fast-talking empire-builder with a bag of homemade beauty products and a big dream. Watching the two bond and rise is an absolute pleasure!
January 9, 2023
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl reimagines the story of Estee Lauder. Her story is related through a friend Gloria. Both young women supposedly come from families well off, but lost the fortunes. Both women are forced to forge their own paths. The only difference is that Estee knows clearly what she wants, Gloria doesn’t.
NYC, 1938. We meet Estee when she is already married with a five-year-old son. The women meet at a beauty parlor where Estee rents a space, selling cold creams and lotions. She makes her beauty products at her tiny apartment, which she shares with her family.
The character of Estee comes alive with her stubborn determination, hard work, and hustling to sell her products. She pushes her way up with each step.
As Gloria relates Estee’s story, she also reveals a lot about herself. Thus, big part of the story is about Gloria. Personally, I’d prefer the story to be concentrated on Estee.
The fascinating figure of Helena Rubinstein is interestingly woven into this story.
The story has a brisk pace. The prose and dialogue are entertaining. The characters are flawed and realistic, bringing a dose of glamour, reality, and fun.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
NYC, 1938. We meet Estee when she is already married with a five-year-old son. The women meet at a beauty parlor where Estee rents a space, selling cold creams and lotions. She makes her beauty products at her tiny apartment, which she shares with her family.
The character of Estee comes alive with her stubborn determination, hard work, and hustling to sell her products. She pushes her way up with each step.
As Gloria relates Estee’s story, she also reveals a lot about herself. Thus, big part of the story is about Gloria. Personally, I’d prefer the story to be concentrated on Estee.
The fascinating figure of Helena Rubinstein is interestingly woven into this story.
The story has a brisk pace. The prose and dialogue are entertaining. The characters are flawed and realistic, bringing a dose of glamour, reality, and fun.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2023
Gloria Downings father has been arrested, he’s been accused of committing investment fraud, and the family loses everything and Gloria's friends no longer speak to her. Gloria wants to become invisible, she changes her name and appearance and for the first time in her life, she has to find a job and be independent.
Estée Lauder is married to Joe and they have a young son Leonard. Estée makes beauty products in her kitchen, she’s currently selling them at a beauty parlor and her dream is to see them displayed on the shelves of an up market department store.
Estée and Gloria meet in 1938, the two women become best friends, and yet they don’t share their secrets. Estée is passionate about her products, she carries samples around in her purse, and she gives women skincare and makeup advice. Sometimes Estée oversteps the mark, she goes too far and it doesn’t put her off!
Gloria starts working at Saks Department Store, she's a natural sales women and with customer service. Estée thinks her products are far better than her big name competitors including; Helena Rubinstein, Elizabeth Arden, Max Factor and Revlon. Estée wants her skincare range sold in Saks Fifth Avenue, she needs to meet with the exclusive board of buyers and deliver her pitch. Estée discovers getting an appointment with them isn’t easy, and she puts pressure on Gloria to help her and Estée doesnt handle constructive criticism well.
Estée and Gloria navigate the world of being working women, at a time when it wasn’t the norm and especially for mothers. Estée is extremely ambitious, this causes problems in all of her relationships, and she pushes herself to breaking point.
I received a digital copy of Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl by Renée Rosen from NetGalley and Berkley Publishing in exchange for an honest review. A well written story about two women living and working in New York City, and the ups and downs of their friendship and careers. Estée Lauder might have been pushy and at times a down right rude woman, but you have to admire her work ethic, and she was the first in the industry to do revolutionary things and she created a beauty empire.
Estée demonstrated how to use her products in store, gave out free samples and a gift with purchase. Gloria and Joe were my favorite characters, they put up with Estée's demands, she was bossy and a drama queen. An incredible historical fiction novel, I was completely hooked from the first page, one of the best books I have read this year, and five big stars from me.
Estée Lauder is married to Joe and they have a young son Leonard. Estée makes beauty products in her kitchen, she’s currently selling them at a beauty parlor and her dream is to see them displayed on the shelves of an up market department store.
Estée and Gloria meet in 1938, the two women become best friends, and yet they don’t share their secrets. Estée is passionate about her products, she carries samples around in her purse, and she gives women skincare and makeup advice. Sometimes Estée oversteps the mark, she goes too far and it doesn’t put her off!
Gloria starts working at Saks Department Store, she's a natural sales women and with customer service. Estée thinks her products are far better than her big name competitors including; Helena Rubinstein, Elizabeth Arden, Max Factor and Revlon. Estée wants her skincare range sold in Saks Fifth Avenue, she needs to meet with the exclusive board of buyers and deliver her pitch. Estée discovers getting an appointment with them isn’t easy, and she puts pressure on Gloria to help her and Estée doesnt handle constructive criticism well.
Estée and Gloria navigate the world of being working women, at a time when it wasn’t the norm and especially for mothers. Estée is extremely ambitious, this causes problems in all of her relationships, and she pushes herself to breaking point.
I received a digital copy of Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl by Renée Rosen from NetGalley and Berkley Publishing in exchange for an honest review. A well written story about two women living and working in New York City, and the ups and downs of their friendship and careers. Estée Lauder might have been pushy and at times a down right rude woman, but you have to admire her work ethic, and she was the first in the industry to do revolutionary things and she created a beauty empire.
Estée demonstrated how to use her products in store, gave out free samples and a gift with purchase. Gloria and Joe were my favorite characters, they put up with Estée's demands, she was bossy and a drama queen. An incredible historical fiction novel, I was completely hooked from the first page, one of the best books I have read this year, and five big stars from me.
April 4, 2023
3.5 Stars
Well, the cover of this book is fabulous...that's for sure! I'm certain that's what initially drew me in. Plus the scheme of a historical fiction perspective of a famous person in the skin care, makeup and perfume industry was attractive to me. I knew next to nothing about Estee Lauder and probably never have even used her products, but was interested in learning more. I did like this book, but think it was hampered a bit by Estee's story being filtered through the character of her friend Gloria Downing. I didn't particularly like this character for her bad decision making and moral code. I liked the character of Estee much more for her relentless work ethic and belief in her products, and sheer guts to make things happen. I would have preferred a first person narration directly from Estee's point of view.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
Well, the cover of this book is fabulous...that's for sure! I'm certain that's what initially drew me in. Plus the scheme of a historical fiction perspective of a famous person in the skin care, makeup and perfume industry was attractive to me. I knew next to nothing about Estee Lauder and probably never have even used her products, but was interested in learning more. I did like this book, but think it was hampered a bit by Estee's story being filtered through the character of her friend Gloria Downing. I didn't particularly like this character for her bad decision making and moral code. I liked the character of Estee much more for her relentless work ethic and belief in her products, and sheer guts to make things happen. I would have preferred a first person narration directly from Estee's point of view.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
January 24, 2024
This is a good 3.5!
January 24, 2024
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl by Renee Rosen is a lovely and entertaining novel about Estée Lauder -A true success story. I had no idea (as with most books I read) what or who this novel was about. I was thrilled to find out. Her make up was the go to make up for all young teens who shopped in department stores in the 80s. Often with give aways to be included Refreshing this novel focused on Estée Lauder and her friend Gloria Downing. Stock market crash, WW2 and other tragedies of that era were casually mentioned but moved on.
September 1, 2022
The Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl sweeps us into the fascinating world of New York’s beauty industry and pulls back the veil on the Cinderella story of how Estee Lauder carved out a name for herself through perseverance and hard work. With Renee Rosen’s impressive research and richly crafted characters, this beautifully written story will be one you won’t be able to put down as you cheer these women on.
April 27, 2023
Estee Lauder and Gloria Downing both came from money, but both families had lost their fortunes.
Gloria's family lost their money when her father was arrested for a Ponzi scheme.
That is when Gloria changed her name because of the stigma her name held.
Both women had to work now, but the only difference was that Estee was ambitious, and Gloria had no skills and wasn't a go getter.
Actually Gloria didn't know how to do anything - she had never worked a day in her life.
The women met while Gloria was a shampoo girl in the shop where Estee had her side shop of creams.
They worked together for a while, but Estee went her way and Gloria finally got a position as a shopgirl in Saks Fifth Avenue where she used to shop and spend her father's money.
We follow both women as they make their way on their own even though Estee was married and had a child.
It was fun joining both women and spending their days with them and learning about their lives during this era.
FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL is another entertaining, well-researched read by Ms. Rosen.
Fans of Ms. Rosen, cosmetic lines, this era, women succeeding, and name dropping will enjoy this book. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Gloria's family lost their money when her father was arrested for a Ponzi scheme.
That is when Gloria changed her name because of the stigma her name held.
Both women had to work now, but the only difference was that Estee was ambitious, and Gloria had no skills and wasn't a go getter.
Actually Gloria didn't know how to do anything - she had never worked a day in her life.
The women met while Gloria was a shampoo girl in the shop where Estee had her side shop of creams.
They worked together for a while, but Estee went her way and Gloria finally got a position as a shopgirl in Saks Fifth Avenue where she used to shop and spend her father's money.
We follow both women as they make their way on their own even though Estee was married and had a child.
It was fun joining both women and spending their days with them and learning about their lives during this era.
FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL is another entertaining, well-researched read by Ms. Rosen.
Fans of Ms. Rosen, cosmetic lines, this era, women succeeding, and name dropping will enjoy this book. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
June 13, 2024
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl, by Renée Rosen
2.5 Stars
Renée Rosen's Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl had a lot of promise with its intriguing premise and historical setting, but it ultimately fell short in its execution. This book is a mixed bag, and I would recommend it primarily to those curious about Estée Lauder or those who enjoy stories set in 1930s and 1940s New York. However, for most readers, it might be an underwhelming and unsatisfying experience.
The Good
Rosen does a wonderful job evoking the atmosphere of the historical period. The novel is rich with details that bring the 1930s to life, like the language of the time and everyday objects, such as the term ‘taxicab’ or even a vending machine of the era. These small touches made the setting feel authentic and immersive.
The themes of independence, ambition, perseverance, and friendship are strong points. Our protagonist, Gloria, and Estée Lauder herself, rise to success through their own intelligence and hard work, which is both empowering and refreshing, especially against the backdrop of 1930s and 1940s sexism.
Additionally, seeing the industry divas interact adds a layer of fun to the narrative.
The Not So Good
Despite the vibrant setting and themes, the characters, especially our protagonist Gloria, remain somewhat flat. Gloria's struggle with her past and her issues with her father is a central aspect of her character, yet it sees little development throughout the story. Her circumstances change dramatically, but her character doesn't evolve much until the very end, making her journey feel stagnant.
The Bad
The weakest aspect of this novel is its plot. The story unfolds in a chronological manner without much narrative drive or suspense. Major events happen, but they lack the buildup and impact needed to keep the reader engaged. The plot elements tied to character development only surface towards the very end, making the overall experience feel monotonous. I often had to push myself to keep reading, which is not the sign of a compelling narrative.
Overall, Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl wasn't a particularly enjoyable read for me. It has its moments and interesting characters (Soda Pop, here’s a shout out to you!), but the lack of dynamic character development and a well-crafted plot made it a struggle to get through. If you're a fan of historical fiction or enjoy stories about the cosmetic industry's pioneers, you might find some value in this book. However, I suspect many readers will find it lacking in engagement and depth.
Criteria:
2.5 Stars: A 2.5-star rating indicates a book that straddles the middle ground. It had elements that I appreciated, such as an engaging premise or some well-crafted characters, but it didn't quite come together as a cohesive whole. The book may have been enjoyable in parts, yet it lacked the consistency in quality or impact to push it into the higher rating categories. This rating is for books that I'm ambivalent about – neither regretting the time spent reading nor feeling compelled to recommend them enthusiastically.
2.5 Stars
Renée Rosen's Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl had a lot of promise with its intriguing premise and historical setting, but it ultimately fell short in its execution. This book is a mixed bag, and I would recommend it primarily to those curious about Estée Lauder or those who enjoy stories set in 1930s and 1940s New York. However, for most readers, it might be an underwhelming and unsatisfying experience.
The Good
Rosen does a wonderful job evoking the atmosphere of the historical period. The novel is rich with details that bring the 1930s to life, like the language of the time and everyday objects, such as the term ‘taxicab’ or even a vending machine of the era. These small touches made the setting feel authentic and immersive.
The themes of independence, ambition, perseverance, and friendship are strong points. Our protagonist, Gloria, and Estée Lauder herself, rise to success through their own intelligence and hard work, which is both empowering and refreshing, especially against the backdrop of 1930s and 1940s sexism.
Additionally, seeing the industry divas interact adds a layer of fun to the narrative.
The Not So Good
Despite the vibrant setting and themes, the characters, especially our protagonist Gloria, remain somewhat flat. Gloria's struggle with her past and her issues with her father is a central aspect of her character, yet it sees little development throughout the story. Her circumstances change dramatically, but her character doesn't evolve much until the very end, making her journey feel stagnant.
The Bad
The weakest aspect of this novel is its plot. The story unfolds in a chronological manner without much narrative drive or suspense. Major events happen, but they lack the buildup and impact needed to keep the reader engaged. The plot elements tied to character development only surface towards the very end, making the overall experience feel monotonous. I often had to push myself to keep reading, which is not the sign of a compelling narrative.
Overall, Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl wasn't a particularly enjoyable read for me. It has its moments and interesting characters (Soda Pop, here’s a shout out to you!), but the lack of dynamic character development and a well-crafted plot made it a struggle to get through. If you're a fan of historical fiction or enjoy stories about the cosmetic industry's pioneers, you might find some value in this book. However, I suspect many readers will find it lacking in engagement and depth.
Criteria:
2.5 Stars: A 2.5-star rating indicates a book that straddles the middle ground. It had elements that I appreciated, such as an engaging premise or some well-crafted characters, but it didn't quite come together as a cohesive whole. The book may have been enjoyable in parts, yet it lacked the consistency in quality or impact to push it into the higher rating categories. This rating is for books that I'm ambivalent about – neither regretting the time spent reading nor feeling compelled to recommend them enthusiastically.
March 19, 2025
3.5 stars
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a historical fiction book that follows the life of Estée Lauder, told through her friend, Gloria. I’m so curious to know how much of this is true and how much is fabricated. Estée and Gloria alike both had a lot of determination and grit. They weren’t always the most likeable (especially Estée with her husband) but as a whole, I enjoyed the book.
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a historical fiction book that follows the life of Estée Lauder, told through her friend, Gloria. I’m so curious to know how much of this is true and how much is fabricated. Estée and Gloria alike both had a lot of determination and grit. They weren’t always the most likeable (especially Estée with her husband) but as a whole, I enjoyed the book.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Hillary Huber
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Historical
Length: 12h 13m
April 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this gem!!! The fictional character of Gloria Downing, who narrates the life and career of Estee Lauder, was such a fabulous and complex and wonderful character. The two of them were complex and vulnerable, as were all the other friends and loves that populated the story. I thought it was engaging and well done, and so easy to get wrapped up in. Loved the audio! The question of what is a lie and a deceit, versus self-protection, vs acceptable manipulation was a theme throughout the book, as was women trying to make their mark and have a second chance. Fascinating the way it wove together.
Also interesting to note, that there were no male (romantic) villains. Then romantic leads in this book were each and all exceptional, and true love stories and support to the women. Insightful, strong, dedicated. I very much also enjoyed learning about Saks Fifth Avenue and the women of the time.
Also interesting to note, that there were no male (romantic) villains. Then romantic leads in this book were each and all exceptional, and true love stories and support to the women. Insightful, strong, dedicated. I very much also enjoyed learning about Saks Fifth Avenue and the women of the time.
April 20, 2023
I always love Renée Rosen's historical fiction gems and Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl truly sparkles. I learned a lot about Estee Lauder and the story was really empowering and inspiring.
I like how the story was told through the eyes of a fictional character, similar to how Park Avenue Summer was written. Gloria had a really interesting and difficult situation to deal with and Renee did a great job weaving her story into Estee's, and vice versa. Estee seemed like a toxic friend to Gloria for the most part. I have to wonder if any of her actual friendships were like that though. I know Renee used a lot of background information but also took her own liberties to make everything fit together. I liked the entrepreneurship aspect a lot. I feel like we take so much for granted in the digital age, while advertising was much more of a challenge back in the 1940s. Still, slander easily happened even without social media, given what happened in Gloria's life.
Renee brings 1940's New York City to life throughout the novel, making everything really easy to visualize. While there was a part about the war, it didn't take over the story but she still made it clear how stressful and scary everything was at that time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and am excited for everyone to read it soon! It publishes on April 25th, so don't hesitate to add it to your TBR!
Movie casting suggestions:
I like how the story was told through the eyes of a fictional character, similar to how Park Avenue Summer was written. Gloria had a really interesting and difficult situation to deal with and Renee did a great job weaving her story into Estee's, and vice versa. Estee seemed like a toxic friend to Gloria for the most part. I have to wonder if any of her actual friendships were like that though. I know Renee used a lot of background information but also took her own liberties to make everything fit together. I liked the entrepreneurship aspect a lot. I feel like we take so much for granted in the digital age, while advertising was much more of a challenge back in the 1940s. Still, slander easily happened even without social media, given what happened in Gloria's life.
Renee brings 1940's New York City to life throughout the novel, making everything really easy to visualize. While there was a part about the war, it didn't take over the story but she still made it clear how stressful and scary everything was at that time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and am excited for everyone to read it soon! It publishes on April 25th, so don't hesitate to add it to your TBR!
Movie casting suggestions:
Gloria: Anya Taylor-Joy
Estee: Sarah Gadon
Joe: Noah Reid
Edward: Dacre Montgomery
Waller: Colton Ryan
Soda Pop: Igby Rigney
Bobbi: Madeleine Arthur
Estee: Sarah Gadon
Joe: Noah Reid
Edward: Dacre Montgomery
Waller: Colton Ryan
Soda Pop: Igby Rigney
Bobbi: Madeleine Arthur
May 10, 2023
This is not a traditional biography of Estée Lauder, it does give the reader a look into the woman who by sheer determination and drive became a pioneer in the cosmetic industry. While much of her life remains a mystery this book reveals enough to get a read on the person she was. Jewish and born in Queens Josephine Esther simply reinvented herself claiming noble Austrian heritage.
Estée’s story is told through a fictional friend Gloria Downing. Gloria has parted ways with her family after her father is sent to prison for a Ponzi scheme (think Madoff). Having grown up in the lap of luxury she is ill equipped to take care of herself with no marketable skills a broken engagement no home and no money she also cuts all ties with her mother and siblings because she refuses to forgive her father for his crimes.
Gloria changes her appearance and last name in order to keep anyone from associating her with the man in Sing Sing as her father. Keeping this secret is traumatic and challenging and causes Gloria to be suspicious of close relationships.
However, when Gloria and Estée meet it is at a pivotal time when both are down and out and need a friend. For whatever reason they take to each other and become close life-long friends seeing each other through good times and bad.
As interesting as Estée Lauder’s story is I really enjoyed Gloria and am glad the author allowed her to tell me Estée’s story. Even though Gloria is fictional this is a story of friendship well told.
Estée’s story is told through a fictional friend Gloria Downing. Gloria has parted ways with her family after her father is sent to prison for a Ponzi scheme (think Madoff). Having grown up in the lap of luxury she is ill equipped to take care of herself with no marketable skills a broken engagement no home and no money she also cuts all ties with her mother and siblings because she refuses to forgive her father for his crimes.
Gloria changes her appearance and last name in order to keep anyone from associating her with the man in Sing Sing as her father. Keeping this secret is traumatic and challenging and causes Gloria to be suspicious of close relationships.
However, when Gloria and Estée meet it is at a pivotal time when both are down and out and need a friend. For whatever reason they take to each other and become close life-long friends seeing each other through good times and bad.
As interesting as Estée Lauder’s story is I really enjoyed Gloria and am glad the author allowed her to tell me Estée’s story. Even though Gloria is fictional this is a story of friendship well told.
July 24, 2022
In Fifth Avenue Glamor Girl , Renée Rosen has created two fabulous characters in Estée Lauder, whose inexhaustible energy and ambition took her from a concession stand in a hair salon to the heights of international fame, and the woman who befriends her, Gloria Downing, a down-on-her luck former rich girl forced to work for a living when her father is prosecuted for running a Ponzi scheme.
Renée Rosen’s gift for creating real, fallible and compelling characters we grow to love and cheer for shines in Fifth Avenue Glamor Girl, a story of the grit and determination behind the glamor of beauty icon, Estée Lauder, and of an enduring, flawed friendship between two strong women. Fifth Avenue Glamor Girl is a brilliant, absorbing, and emotional novel you won’t want to put down!
Renée Rosen’s gift for creating real, fallible and compelling characters we grow to love and cheer for shines in Fifth Avenue Glamor Girl, a story of the grit and determination behind the glamor of beauty icon, Estée Lauder, and of an enduring, flawed friendship between two strong women. Fifth Avenue Glamor Girl is a brilliant, absorbing, and emotional novel you won’t want to put down!
December 31, 2022
As I look over my Estee Lauder beauty products, I think to myself how fascinating it is that I've just read a book on their humble beginnings.
This compelling read will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Though I thought the book would be told from Estte Lauder's point of view it is told by her best friend Gloria Downing's point of view. Estee and Gloria have a love/hate relationship (sisterly/best-friend) love. Gloria's family was rich until her father was jailed for many people investing with him with no return causing a scandal. Gloria changes her last name and must reinvent herself to avoid shame she believes. She is now a shampoo girl at a beauty salon where she meets Estee who shows the women at the hair dryers her jars of beauty creams. Getting fired at the beauty salon Gloria feels down on her luck but it quickly picks up when she's hired to sell beauty products at Saks Fifth Avenue. The top salesgirl quickly rises in the ranks and becomes administration. The beauty products Estee is selling her products at hair salons were made by her chemist uncle. She took over making these products in her kitchen, but I don't believe she gave her uncle credit for his work.
Estee is desperate to get her products into Saks Fifth Avenue to be sold at their beauty counter.
Estee is portrayed as a needy and clingy woman running to Gloria for everything from bad breakups to sets backs in her makeup ventures. Was this her true personality, I don't know for sure and I'm not sure the author knows either. I did some research my own on this woman and it was fascinating reading. The author very accurately portrays Estee Lauder's life and ventures. One thing I have seen is Estee's determination to get ahead, become famous, get her cosmetics in the hands of everyone and have her products sold at Saks. She wasn't afraid to step on toes to claw her way to the top.
In a male dominated world these women are not afraid to take charge and do things on their own terms regardless of who it affects. This has shot right to the top of my list of favorite books, and I know it'll stay there. You do have to admire a woman from such a humble beginning who rose to the top with such an insatiable desire to succeed.
Pub Date 25 Apr 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This compelling read will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Though I thought the book would be told from Estte Lauder's point of view it is told by her best friend Gloria Downing's point of view. Estee and Gloria have a love/hate relationship (sisterly/best-friend) love. Gloria's family was rich until her father was jailed for many people investing with him with no return causing a scandal. Gloria changes her last name and must reinvent herself to avoid shame she believes. She is now a shampoo girl at a beauty salon where she meets Estee who shows the women at the hair dryers her jars of beauty creams. Getting fired at the beauty salon Gloria feels down on her luck but it quickly picks up when she's hired to sell beauty products at Saks Fifth Avenue. The top salesgirl quickly rises in the ranks and becomes administration. The beauty products Estee is selling her products at hair salons were made by her chemist uncle. She took over making these products in her kitchen, but I don't believe she gave her uncle credit for his work.
Estee is desperate to get her products into Saks Fifth Avenue to be sold at their beauty counter.
Estee is portrayed as a needy and clingy woman running to Gloria for everything from bad breakups to sets backs in her makeup ventures. Was this her true personality, I don't know for sure and I'm not sure the author knows either. I did some research my own on this woman and it was fascinating reading. The author very accurately portrays Estee Lauder's life and ventures. One thing I have seen is Estee's determination to get ahead, become famous, get her cosmetics in the hands of everyone and have her products sold at Saks. She wasn't afraid to step on toes to claw her way to the top.
In a male dominated world these women are not afraid to take charge and do things on their own terms regardless of who it affects. This has shot right to the top of my list of favorite books, and I know it'll stay there. You do have to admire a woman from such a humble beginning who rose to the top with such an insatiable desire to succeed.
Pub Date 25 Apr 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 2, 2023
I love historical fiction and was really looking forward to reading this book. The idea of the book was fantastic....Estee Lauder's story is fascinating. Unfortunately, the author constantly repeats the same theme. Practically every chapter is a retelling of what happened to Gloria's father. It became tiresome and how many times do we need a description of Estee's "teacup" hands? I did enjoy reading about Estee's journey to bring her company forward in a time when it was difficult for women to succeed in business.
March 18, 2025
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a fictionalized account of Estée Lauder’s life, told through the eyes of Gloria, a woman who befriends her during her early career. While the novel incorporates key elements of Estée’s real-life journey, the author takes creative liberties, particularly in depicting the period when Estée was divorced from her husband.
Gloria, however, is not based on a real person nor a composite of those who knew Estée. Instead, she serves as a lens through which we experience Estée’s rise. A former socialite who has fallen from grace, Gloria is forced to navigate the “real” world and finds herself drawn into Estée’s ambitious orbit. Their friendship, full of ups and downs, adds depth to the narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. The story kept me engaged, eager to see what was next for these two women.
Gloria, however, is not based on a real person nor a composite of those who knew Estée. Instead, she serves as a lens through which we experience Estée’s rise. A former socialite who has fallen from grace, Gloria is forced to navigate the “real” world and finds herself drawn into Estée’s ambitious orbit. Their friendship, full of ups and downs, adds depth to the narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. The story kept me engaged, eager to see what was next for these two women.
Audiobook source: Libby
Narrator: Hillary Huber
Length: 12h 13m
May 2, 2024
An interesting fictionalized version (based on lots of direct resources from Estée Lauder herself and her son, friends, etc.) of Estée Lauder’s time from nobody to becoming a beauty icon. I really enjoyed the anecdotes and tidbits of Lauder’s philosophy on sales, beauty, and refined society. I don’t agree with her; but it was a well written story that showed both the strengths and flaws of Lauder in the end.
What’s confusing about Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is how little there is about WWII. Given this story happens simultaneously with the war it seems odd that so little of the war situation (even though we are in America) affected our leading ladies. It’s as though a piece of the story is missing to give it true historical context. Unfortunately that makes me wonder about some of the truth in the story. While well researched, and a good authors note in the end; the element of war being such a non-factor kept taking me out of this story and making me wonder if it could be true that Lauder was so sheltered from the war activities (before and after Pearl Harbour). Thus only a four star rating from me. That said, I would absolutely try another book by Renee Rosen in the future.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
What’s confusing about Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is how little there is about WWII. Given this story happens simultaneously with the war it seems odd that so little of the war situation (even though we are in America) affected our leading ladies. It’s as though a piece of the story is missing to give it true historical context. Unfortunately that makes me wonder about some of the truth in the story. While well researched, and a good authors note in the end; the element of war being such a non-factor kept taking me out of this story and making me wonder if it could be true that Lauder was so sheltered from the war activities (before and after Pearl Harbour). Thus only a four star rating from me. That said, I would absolutely try another book by Renee Rosen in the future.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
September 17, 2023
4.5 stars
Ah, what a sight that would been; Saks Fifth Avenue as it was in its heyday, during the ‘30s and 40’s.
A time when many women got completely dressed up and put on make-up just to go downtown, to see and be seen. This book was like a trip in a time-machine, with the wonderful descriptions of Manhattan and the fashions that were popular in that period, which of course included cosmetics!
Ah, what a sight that would been; Saks Fifth Avenue as it was in its heyday, during the ‘30s and 40’s.
A time when many women got completely dressed up and put on make-up just to go downtown, to see and be seen. This book was like a trip in a time-machine, with the wonderful descriptions of Manhattan and the fashions that were popular in that period, which of course included cosmetics!
May 5, 2023
Summary: In 1938 New York City, a young woman by the name of Estée Lauder is selling her homemade face products out of a local beauty shop, determined to become the next Elizabeth Arden. When she crosses paths with fellow shopgirl Gloria Downing, the two women forge a friendship that will change both of their lives.
Thoughts: Wow! This is the most bingeable historical fiction novel I have ever read! Renee Rosen does a masterful job brining Estée Lauder to life and showcasing the extent of her sheer willpower to succeed in the midst of a changing social and political landscape. Spanning several decades, and told from the perspective of Estée’s friend Gloria, a former socialite who’s fallen from grace, we follow both women as they struggle to build relationships, careers and lives they can be proud of.
I listened to this stunning novel on audio (while doing many loads of laundry) and cannot sing Hillary Huber’s praises enough. Her tone, and the emotion she conveys in any given scene, are what really brought this one to life. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite narrators.
Read if you like:
•biographies
•stories about friendships
•character driven stories
•dual timelines
Thank you {partners} Berkley Publishing and PRH Audio for the gifted copies in exchange for my honest review.
Thoughts: Wow! This is the most bingeable historical fiction novel I have ever read! Renee Rosen does a masterful job brining Estée Lauder to life and showcasing the extent of her sheer willpower to succeed in the midst of a changing social and political landscape. Spanning several decades, and told from the perspective of Estée’s friend Gloria, a former socialite who’s fallen from grace, we follow both women as they struggle to build relationships, careers and lives they can be proud of.
I listened to this stunning novel on audio (while doing many loads of laundry) and cannot sing Hillary Huber’s praises enough. Her tone, and the emotion she conveys in any given scene, are what really brought this one to life. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite narrators.
Read if you like:
•biographies
•stories about friendships
•character driven stories
•dual timelines
Thank you {partners} Berkley Publishing and PRH Audio for the gifted copies in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2023
Interesting story.
December 6, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up.
Estée Lauder started with nothing, worked hard, and against all odds, founded a global cosmetic company. Gloria Downing is down on her luck, trying to figure out how to make a life for herself after a family scandal implodes her life. The two women meet and become close friends, helping each other through tough times, cheering each other on and at times and antagonizing each other.
The story is told from Gloria’s perspective as she and Estee reinvent themselves. Both women become professionally successful, but their personal lives are at times a total mess. Interspersed throughout the story are short chapters where, in the future, a writer, Lee Israel, tries to interview Gloria for a tell all book about Estee. It turns out this is not fiction. Lee Israel actually did write a book about Estée Lauder. It was published about three weeks after an authorized biography was published.
There are many famous people in this book: Helena Rubenstein; Charles Revson; and Elizabeth Arden, to name a few. I always enjoy the author’s notes at the end of these kind of books to learn what is real and what is fiction. The book is well written, and well paced. I found it hard to put it down. I admit, I was hoping that one particular relationship would work out, but sometimes things happen for a reason. I won’t give away any other information because I don’t want to be a spoiler.
I’ve been using Estée Lauder products for years, especially her perfumes. I didn’t know that she was the one who started the “ free gift with purchase“idea. I loved those free gifts, but I don’t know if they even do that anymore.
This is a totally enjoyable read that explores the life of a trailblazing woman and it is an absolute recommend.
Estée Lauder started with nothing, worked hard, and against all odds, founded a global cosmetic company. Gloria Downing is down on her luck, trying to figure out how to make a life for herself after a family scandal implodes her life. The two women meet and become close friends, helping each other through tough times, cheering each other on and at times and antagonizing each other.
The story is told from Gloria’s perspective as she and Estee reinvent themselves. Both women become professionally successful, but their personal lives are at times a total mess. Interspersed throughout the story are short chapters where, in the future, a writer, Lee Israel, tries to interview Gloria for a tell all book about Estee. It turns out this is not fiction. Lee Israel actually did write a book about Estée Lauder. It was published about three weeks after an authorized biography was published.
There are many famous people in this book: Helena Rubenstein; Charles Revson; and Elizabeth Arden, to name a few. I always enjoy the author’s notes at the end of these kind of books to learn what is real and what is fiction. The book is well written, and well paced. I found it hard to put it down. I admit, I was hoping that one particular relationship would work out, but sometimes things happen for a reason. I won’t give away any other information because I don’t want to be a spoiler.
I’ve been using Estée Lauder products for years, especially her perfumes. I didn’t know that she was the one who started the “ free gift with purchase“idea. I loved those free gifts, but I don’t know if they even do that anymore.
This is a totally enjoyable read that explores the life of a trailblazing woman and it is an absolute recommend.
April 29, 2023
I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially those set during WWII. This book has some overlap of the WWII era but it's more of a small side topic, not at all the major focus. That totally worked here. You probably couldn't have lived during that period without some kind of impact.
The focus of this book is Estee Lauder, her rise in the late 1930s and 1940s, as seen from her friend Gloria's perspective. It was an amazing, interesting, and fascinating story. I loved hearing about the humble beginnings of this iconic brand. I loved the magic of NYC during this time period and allure of the beloved Saks Fifth Avenue.
The talk of make up, fashion, department stores, buyers, etc. was so fascinating. The writing was superb and transported me back to that era.
I was able to listen to this one as well. It was superbly narrated and I highly recommend this on audio for any audiobook fans
The focus of this book is Estee Lauder, her rise in the late 1930s and 1940s, as seen from her friend Gloria's perspective. It was an amazing, interesting, and fascinating story. I loved hearing about the humble beginnings of this iconic brand. I loved the magic of NYC during this time period and allure of the beloved Saks Fifth Avenue.
The talk of make up, fashion, department stores, buyers, etc. was so fascinating. The writing was superb and transported me back to that era.
I was able to listen to this one as well. It was superbly narrated and I highly recommend this on audio for any audiobook fans
April 28, 2023
3.5 Stars
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a fictionalized account of the Estée Lauder story as seen through Gloria’s perspective.
It’s 1938 and Gloria Downing is reinventing her life after a family scandal when she crosses paths with Estée (Lauder). Idealistic, visionary, ambitious, and determined, Estee is selling face cream out of beauty parlors. Through helping Estée, Gloria begins to discover her own talents, and her success leads to opening doors for Estée. Not without its angst, this is a story of ambition, friendship, and ultimate success.
I anticipated a fictionalized biography of Estée Lauder, and I was a bit surprised to realize that this is Gloria’s story and through her, we gain a third-person, limited perspective of Estée. When we meet them, both characters are young, ambitious, and determined. A fierce competitor, Estée is determined to become a household name like Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, and Revlon. Gloria is the least confident of the two but has her own unique abilities. They become acquainted as Estée is selling face cream in the salon where Gloria is a shampoo girl. Although I admire their spunk and determination and enjoyed hearing about Estée’s “beginning,” I found it difficult to feel emotionally connected to either character.
Significant themes in the story involve friendship and women supporting women. Realistically, their friendship had its ups and downs. At times, the angst of their relationship was discouraging (albeit realistic) in its repetitive on-again, off-again nature. Even though Gloria and Estée had their conflicts, they ultimately had each other’s back in the best and worst of times. Overall, this is an “against-the-odds” story of self-made women.
If you enjoy historical fiction set in New York City during the 30s and 40s and are interested in skincare and beauty products, you might enjoy a glimpse into the life of Estée Lauder and her fictional cohort. Readers who love strong female characters will want to add this to their TBRs.
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkelyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary e ARC of #FifthAvenueGlamourGirl upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a fictionalized account of the Estée Lauder story as seen through Gloria’s perspective.
It’s 1938 and Gloria Downing is reinventing her life after a family scandal when she crosses paths with Estée (Lauder). Idealistic, visionary, ambitious, and determined, Estee is selling face cream out of beauty parlors. Through helping Estée, Gloria begins to discover her own talents, and her success leads to opening doors for Estée. Not without its angst, this is a story of ambition, friendship, and ultimate success.
I anticipated a fictionalized biography of Estée Lauder, and I was a bit surprised to realize that this is Gloria’s story and through her, we gain a third-person, limited perspective of Estée. When we meet them, both characters are young, ambitious, and determined. A fierce competitor, Estée is determined to become a household name like Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, and Revlon. Gloria is the least confident of the two but has her own unique abilities. They become acquainted as Estée is selling face cream in the salon where Gloria is a shampoo girl. Although I admire their spunk and determination and enjoyed hearing about Estée’s “beginning,” I found it difficult to feel emotionally connected to either character.
Significant themes in the story involve friendship and women supporting women. Realistically, their friendship had its ups and downs. At times, the angst of their relationship was discouraging (albeit realistic) in its repetitive on-again, off-again nature. Even though Gloria and Estée had their conflicts, they ultimately had each other’s back in the best and worst of times. Overall, this is an “against-the-odds” story of self-made women.
If you enjoy historical fiction set in New York City during the 30s and 40s and are interested in skincare and beauty products, you might enjoy a glimpse into the life of Estée Lauder and her fictional cohort. Readers who love strong female characters will want to add this to their TBRs.
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkelyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary e ARC of #FifthAvenueGlamourGirl upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
February 16, 2023
I tend to like fictional reimaginings of famous figures, and although I'm not into cosmetics in any way, I found the idea of a book about Estée Lauder interesting. While I did find Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl to be a fun read with lots of drama, optimism, and determination, it wasn't quite what I wanted it to be.
I think my biggest issue was that I wanted more of the focus to be on Estée rather than the fictional character serving as our narrator. Gloria "Downing" is running from her family's major scandal and finds herself crossing paths with cosmetic maker Estée Lauder. The two become friends, and over the next several years, Gloria forges her own path while helping Estée make her cosmetics a success. While I found Gloria's story to be interesting, I thought the plot in general went around in circles a bit--Estée would do something that Gloria disliked, the two would fight, they'd make up; wash, rinse, repeat. That's realistic enough, but they always seemed to fight about the same things and never seemed to come to a real resolution.
I also had an issue with the time jumps. The first part of the story takes place over a shorter period of time, and then chapters would skip entire years. It's fine to not write about every single day, but going from very detailed to big jumps threw me off a bit. The dual timeline worked fine, although I would've liked a bit more from the 1980s timeline.
Overall, Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a fictional story about Estée Lauder that suffers from not being enough about Estée Lauder. It's a quick and easy read, but not one I'd recommend.
I think my biggest issue was that I wanted more of the focus to be on Estée rather than the fictional character serving as our narrator. Gloria "Downing" is running from her family's major scandal and finds herself crossing paths with cosmetic maker Estée Lauder. The two become friends, and over the next several years, Gloria forges her own path while helping Estée make her cosmetics a success. While I found Gloria's story to be interesting, I thought the plot in general went around in circles a bit--Estée would do something that Gloria disliked, the two would fight, they'd make up; wash, rinse, repeat. That's realistic enough, but they always seemed to fight about the same things and never seemed to come to a real resolution.
I also had an issue with the time jumps. The first part of the story takes place over a shorter period of time, and then chapters would skip entire years. It's fine to not write about every single day, but going from very detailed to big jumps threw me off a bit. The dual timeline worked fine, although I would've liked a bit more from the 1980s timeline.
Overall, Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is a fictional story about Estée Lauder that suffers from not being enough about Estée Lauder. It's a quick and easy read, but not one I'd recommend.
May 2, 2023
Rosen's novel needs a clear identity. Is it Gloria's coming of age story? Is it an exploration of Gloria's psychology (guilt)? Is it the story of Estee making it? Without a clear identity, the characters all feel flat.
August 6, 2023
Each Christmas of my childhood a distinctive pink box of Estee Lauder’s “Beautiful” perfume could always be found waiting for my mom under the tree. In my mind Estee Lauder was the pinnacle of luxury beauty products.
FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL is based on the true story of Estee Lauder and her journey to becoming a household name. Estee’s moxie and blind ambition that catapulted her to the top of the beauty industry came at a cost. The blind ambition of chasing her dreams made it difficult for her to manage her personal relationships and made for an entertaining read. She was certainly an innovative trailblazer for her time!
As with her previous novels, Park Avenue Summer and The Social Graces, Renee Rosen captures the history of New York City so well. I had the opportunity to participate in an author chat with Renee through the Thoughts From A Page Patreon early reads program and learning about her research process as well as the next book she is working on was so much fun!
RATING: 4/5
PUB DATE: April 25, 2023
Many thanks to Berkley and the Thoughts From A Page Podcast Patreon Early Reads for an advanced electronic ARC and author chat.
FIFTH AVENUE GLAMOUR GIRL is based on the true story of Estee Lauder and her journey to becoming a household name. Estee’s moxie and blind ambition that catapulted her to the top of the beauty industry came at a cost. The blind ambition of chasing her dreams made it difficult for her to manage her personal relationships and made for an entertaining read. She was certainly an innovative trailblazer for her time!
As with her previous novels, Park Avenue Summer and The Social Graces, Renee Rosen captures the history of New York City so well. I had the opportunity to participate in an author chat with Renee through the Thoughts From A Page Patreon early reads program and learning about her research process as well as the next book she is working on was so much fun!
RATING: 4/5
PUB DATE: April 25, 2023
Many thanks to Berkley and the Thoughts From A Page Podcast Patreon Early Reads for an advanced electronic ARC and author chat.
May 7, 2023
I did really like this book. To me though it seemed like it was completely fabricated. I guess if this wasn’t the story of Estée Lauder I could have bought in to it more. To me it was just a good story about someone trying to break into the cosmetic world. The book also seemed to me that it was more about her best friend, Gloria. I do recommend reading this book, it just didn’t seem like historical fiction. I would be curious what others thought.
May 23, 2023
*3.5 stars ✨
This had me quite interested in the makeup industry. I think I googled a million times while reading this book. Good story, would find myself picking up another book by this author.
This had me quite interested in the makeup industry. I think I googled a million times while reading this book. Good story, would find myself picking up another book by this author.
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